Coxswains' Footwear: Shoes Or Bare Feet In The Boat?

The coxswain is a crucial member of a rowing team, responsible for steering the boat, coordinating the power and rhythm of the rowers, and ensuring crew safety. While some coxswains prefer to be barefoot in the boat, others opt for footwear to protect their feet when walking to and from the boat. Water shoes, flip-flops, slides, and boat shoes are popular choices, offering comfort, protection, and style. However, some coxswains choose to prioritise feeling the boat and go barefoot, enhancing their ability to steer effectively. Ultimately, the decision to wear shoes in the boat is a personal preference, influenced by factors such as comfort, safety, and style.

Coxswains should wear shoes that are waterproof, durable, and not too expensive

As a coxswain, you need to be dressed appropriately for the weather, and that includes your footwear. You'll want to keep your feet dry and warm, and have good grip on wet surfaces.

If you're looking for a shoe that's waterproof, durable, and not too expensive, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, you could go for a waterproof walking shoe. These tend to be lighter than boots, but still offer protection from the rain. The Nike Winflo 11 GTX is an affordable option at $130, and it offers effective waterproofing and good grip on wet surfaces. Another walking shoe to consider is the Hoka Transport GTX, which is the most durable waterproof walking shoe according to RunRepeat. It has a waterproof and bulletproof nature, with a stable and secure ride. However, it is on the heavier side at 11.6 oz (330g).

If you're looking for something more lightweight, you could opt for a waterproof running shoe. The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX is an agile performer with a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, and it's even lighter than its non-GTX counterpart. It usually retails for a reasonable price, but do note that it may not be suitable for those who need extra stability. For a stable and supportive ride, the Hoka Challenger 7 GTX is a good option. It has all-terrain, all-weather capabilities, and it's surprisingly lightweight given its stack height. However, it may be too stiff for hiking and is not recommended for those with wide feet.

If you're looking for a more flexible and less bulky option than hiking boots, the Hoka Kaha 2 Low GTX is a good choice. These shoes offer effective waterproofing and grippy traction, and they're also versatile for roads and paved paths. However, they are not as lightweight as some other options, and they can make your feet feel sweaty in hot weather.

For a stylish option that doesn't compromise on comfort and protection, the Sorel Ona Blvd Sneaker is a good choice. They have a cool, vintage style, and they kept our feet completely dry during runs and walks in wet conditions. They also provide good grip on wet surfaces, but they do feel a bit rigid.

Lastly, if you want a lightweight, comfy, and grippy waterproof shoe for hiking and casual wear, the New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 GTX is a great option. They have effective waterproofing and a grippy rubber sole, and they're also lightweight and comfortable.

Remember, it's important to prioritize your needs and preferences when choosing a shoe. Consider the climate you'll be wearing them in, the level of activity you'll be doing, and your budget.

Adidas slides are a good option for warm weather coxing

Adidas slides are a good option for warm-weather coxing. They are a great choice for comfort and durability, offering lightweight, water-resistant, and impact-cushioning properties. The slides are designed with comfort in mind, featuring memory foam footbeds, midsole and outsole cushioning, and other features designed for maximum comfort.

Adidas slides are also easy to wear, as you simply slide your feet into them, and they are available in a wide range of colours and styles, including the classic Adidas three-stripe design. Additionally, they are suitable for various occasions, whether you're walking around the locker room, hanging out in the park, or chilling at home.

Adidas slides are also a good option for coxswains because they provide improved traction compared to bare feet. This can be especially useful when walking on wet surfaces, such as near pools or on boat docks. The slides can also help protect your feet from sharp objects or rocks that may be present when walking to and from the boat.

Furthermore, Adidas slides are known for their durability, so they will last through many wears. They are made from cutting-edge materials, ensuring that they can withstand the challenges of both athletic endeavours and everyday wear.

Overall, Adidas slides tick all the boxes for warm-weather coxing footwear. They are comfortable, durable, stylish, and provide improved traction. So, if you're looking for footwear that will keep your feet cool and comfortable while coxing in warm weather, Adidas slides are an excellent option to consider.

In cold weather, a pair of wellies with warm socks underneath is a good option

When it comes to coxswain footwear, there are a variety of options to consider, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. One popular choice is to go barefoot, which allows for better feel and control of the boat. However, this may not be feasible in cold weather conditions.

When selecting socks for cold weather coxswaining, consider wool socks, which are designed to retain warmth even when wet. If you prefer a vegan alternative, there are synthetic options available as well. It is also a good idea to have a few pairs of socks with you, as you may want to change into a dry pair if your feet get damp.

As for the wellies, look for a pair that fits comfortably and provides adequate insulation. You may also want to consider the sole of the boot, as a non-slip sole can provide better traction when walking on slippery surfaces. Additionally, ensure that your wellies are in good condition, as any holes or leaks can lead to cold, wet feet.

By combining wellies with warm socks, coxswains can maintain warmth and comfort while navigating the boat during cold weather outings.

In extreme cold, coxswains should consider a survival suit to stay warm and dry

As a coxswain, it is critical to dress appropriately for the weather. If you're dressed for the cold, you'll be able to focus on delivering what your boat needs. In extreme cold, coxswains should consider a survival suit, also called a safety suit or flotation suit, to stay warm and dry. These suits can be a game-changer for coxswains who are routinely on the water in cold weather.

The Immersion Suit from Mustang Survival is designed for use in commercial operations and is ideal for workboats, transport vessels, drilling rigs, supply ships, steamships, and commercial fishermen. It is also suitable for the sailing community. The suit features five-fingered insulated gloves for warmth and dexterity, a water-tight face seal, a retrieval harness rated to 1000 lbs (454 kg) dead-weight for a minimum of 10 minutes, ankle adjustments for a better fit, 5mm fire-retardant neoprene for flotation and hypothermia protection, triple-sealed seam construction, and non-slip durable soles.

The Mustang Survival Immersion Suit is easy to don in stormy conditions and provides protection from cold water and hypothermia. It is available in both adult universal and child sizes.

In addition to a survival suit, coxswains can consider wearing waterproof pants, quality winter boots, and wool socks to stay warm and dry in cold weather.

Coxswains should avoid wearing shoes in the boat to feel the boat better and improve circulation

As a coxswain, it is important to be dressed appropriately for the weather, and to wear clothing that enables you to steer well and deliver what your boat needs.

Coxswains should avoid wearing shoes in the boat to improve their feel of the boat and their circulation. When steering, coxswains need to be able to move their toes, and wearing shoes can restrict this movement, making it unpleasant and reducing circulation.

It is also important for coxswains to be able to run around with some foot protection when they are not in the boat. For this reason, some coxswains opt for flip-flops, slides, or Crocs, which can be easily taken off and left on the dock before getting into the boat.

However, it is important to note that some boathouses have strict no-shoes-in-the-boat rules, in which case, coxswains may want to consider investing in a pair of booties.

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